SAVANNAH, Ga. () — Supporters are calling on state and local government officials to help stop the potential closure of one of Savannah’s most iconic restaurants.

Olympia Café has been a River Street staple for more than three decades, but because of a state law, their lease is at risk. Amid concerns of Olympia having to close, supporters are saying that losing Olympia would mean losing a piece of Savannah’s history.

“I challenge anyone to go pull a picture up of River Street over the past thirty years,” Business Consultant Michael McCord said. “Drawn footage, any kind of press release. You’re going to see this blue and white awning.”

Olympia has withstood the test of time as River Street has undergone major changes. The restaurant has spent over three decades of serving up Greek fare that tourists and locals flock to enjoy, but the landmark hasn’t had it easy this year.

Earlier this year, the restaurant suffered the loss of long-time owner Nick Pappas. Pappas died at 80 years old in May.

Only a few months after his death, the news broke that resturant could be forced to close the iconic location and relocate by the end of 2025 if their lease isn’t renewed by the city.

“They just buried one of the owners in May, and now we’re here in August, and they’ve gotta find another location to go in less than six months,” McCord said.

Savannah Mayor Van Johnson said the city can’t renew the lease due to a 2011 law.

 “There are no legal renewal options. Some folks say just renew it,” Johnson said. “We cannot by law renew the lease. According to the state of Georgia and the law, any new lease opportunity for use of city-owned space must be bid publicly.”

A public bid means that anyone who wants a shot at leasing the prime location can throw their hat in the ring.

“If a Marriott Hotel or something wants to come in here, obviously a small business can’t compete with that…” McCord said. “We’re wanting a little more transparency… We understand it’s a state law, and Van Johnson’s hands are tied, but he can advocate for Olympia.”

Decades of family celebrations, countless awards, classic Savannah holiday festivities and their busy dining room are all at risk. 

“Today, we’re calling on the government,” McCord said. “Are you going to work with the small businesses of Savannah? Are you going to work with the little guys or are you going to have more million-dollar businesses on River Street?”

The request for proposals was released to the public in May, according to Johnson, and all proposals are due to the city this week. 

Supporters created a petition in May, but there’s no guarantee that Olympia will be chosen.